Hugh Shepherd Jr. | Digital Infrastructure Advisor (Contractor)
United States Trade and Development Agency (USTDA)

Hugh Shepherd Jr. is a Digital Infrastructure Advisor (Contractor) at the United States Trade and Development Agency (USTDA), where he supports digital infrastructure initiatives across the Indo-Pacific. His work focuses on connectivity, data centres, cloud infrastructure, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, subsea cables, and emerging technologies, advising on projects that strengthen digital ecosystems and critical infrastructure.

He brings more than 30 years of experience spanning telecommunications, information technology, cybersecurity, digital infrastructure, consulting, and international development. His career has included leadership and advisory roles across the public and private sectors, with projects covering North America, the Indo-Pacific, Latin America, and Africa.

Alongside his work with USTDA, Hugh is Principal Consultant at HSJR Global Solutions, an independent advisory practice specialising in cybersecurity, digital infrastructure, technology strategy, and emerging technologies. He also serves as a Quality Engineer for cybersecurity and IT training content at Cybrary and as a fractional Cybersecurity Advisor to techsapiens.

Earlier in his career, Hugh spent almost eight years with Deloitte's Technology Strategy & Architecture practice, where he advised government clients on cybersecurity, cloud migration, information security, and technology strategy. He also held technical and engineering roles with Verizon, Qwest Communications, Starpower Communications, and Alcatel, following his service as a Communications Specialist in the United States Army.

Hugh holds an MBA and a Master of Science in Technology Management from the University of Maryland Global Campus, as well as graduate certificates in Financial Management and Leadership Development from The Johns Hopkins University. He also holds a Bachelor's degree in Political Science from Ohio University. His professional certifications include CISSP, Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), CompTIA Security+, CompTIA A+, and ITIL, reflecting his expertise across cybersecurity, digital infrastructure, and technology governance.